Overview
Historical Sites & Plantations
Located just south of the Grand Strand, South Carolina’s Lowcountry is one of the most scenic and history-rich regions in the country. And while Myrtle Beach is not technically part of the Lowcountry, it’s just a short drive away from some of the area’s most unique cultural gems. The best part is that, if you plan it out right, you can experience several of the region’s attractions in one day trip, and still have time to enjoy a great Lowcountry meal for dinner. These sites are must-see’s for anyone interested in American and Southern history.
Brookgreen Gardens
Brookgreen Gardens is one of the most popular attractions along the Grand Strand, and for good reason. This beautiful sculpture/botanical garden is situated on the land of a once-working rice plantation. After plantation days were over, Brookgreen Gardens was founded by Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington in 1931 and is a designated National Historic Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
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Cap'n Rod's Lowcountry Tours
Take a Plantation River Tour with the guidance of Lowcountry native Capt. Rod Singleton. The tour winds past old plantation mansions, abandoned rice fields and live oaks. Capt. Rod will entertain and delight with tales of history, legends and personal anecdotes on this fun and educational tour.
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Hobcaw Barony
Set on 16,000 acres of land, this historic site is home to the former winter retreat of Wall Street financier and presidential advisor Bernard Baruch. The property is now used as a nature preserve, but the caretakers also offer tours of the old mansion, the 19th Century slave village, and a 1,800 square-foot Discovery Center, where visitors can learn about the area’s rich natural habitat.
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Hopsewee Plantation
A visit to this Revolutionary War-era plantation is a step back in time like no other in the area. Preserved but not restored, the original brick and black Cypress house (circa 1735) still stands on the grounds. Visitors can also take a stroll through the natural grounds where plenty of moss-covered live oaks add to the serene sense of history that the plantation offers.
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The Rice Museum
Here’s a little-known fact — in 1840, Georgetown produced almost half of the American rice crop. In fact, the region’s output was vital not only to the rest of the colonies, but to other countries as well. In addition to the permanent collection and rotating exhibits that feature the works of local artists, the Museum is also home to the Browns Ferry Vessel – the oldest vessel on display in the nation.
Atalaya
Atalaya is a former castle that is located at Huntington Beach State Park in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. The castle served as a winter home for Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington, founders of Brookgreen Gardens.
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11. Exploring State Parks
Some Myrtle Beach visitors — and even many locals — never make it to our two State Parks. There are plenty of distractions here at the beach, no denying. But those who don’t visit are missing out on two of the jewels of our region, both offering ver …
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67. Downtown Conway
Just miles away from the beach is a whole different world in the historic city of Conway. The city is full of history and Southern charm with lots of shops and restaurants for visitors to check out. Most Myrtle Beach visitors see Conway as a town to pass …
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72. Beachwear Stores
The sun and sand are free, but you need some supplies before you hit the beach. The beach stores dotting corners and roads throughout the Grand Strand have become just as much a part of the vacation experience as the ocean itself. Whether you’re looking …
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75. Tattoos & Piercings
Gift shops are great, but maybe you’re looking for a more permanent memento of your trip to Myrtle beach. Limited by law to a small strip off the beaten path in Myrtle Beach, most area tattoo parlors call Seaboard Street home. Anyone wanting a tattoo or …
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16. Bowling
A classic diversion for both young and old, bowling has long been part of American culture. With a number of bowling alleys in the area, the Grand Strand offers families, friends and couples a wide variety of bowling and entertainment options. Everything …
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05. Jet Ski Rentals
Since the first Jet Skis rolled off the assembly lines in the late 1960s and into America’s lakes, rivers and oceans, watersports got a whole lot more fun. Like motorcycles on the water, jet skis, also called PWC (Personal Water Craft), are fast, fun, a …
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29. Arcades
As old as seaside vacations themselves, arcades, originally called “penny arcades,” have a long-standing tradition of entertaining crowds of all ages. Along the Grand Strand you’ll find games of chance, games of skill, and the unique sights and soun …
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49. Comedy Clubs & Shows
Stand-up comedy is funny on television, but being there is a completely different experience. And there aren’t many better ways to relax at night than checking out a few comedians at a Myrtle Beach comedy club — you’ll completely forget the …
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02. Parasailing
“Fly through the air with the greatest of ease!” Myrtle Beach parasailing captains have made it easy to soar like a bird. And on a beautiful Grand Strand day, the views are out of this world! Let area boat captains and crews launch you slowly, and saf …
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52. Go-Karts
Take a break from the water and test your need for speed on land at a fun go-kart attraction! Those brave enough to take on the cool watersports on our list of 102 Things to Do will also love the feeling of salt air whipping through their hair as they tak …
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10. Boat Cruises
With the Atlantic Ocean to the east, and the Intracoastal Waterway to the west, the numerous boat tours in Myrtle Beach provide a range of entertainment and sightseeing alternatives. From quiet Waterway dinner cruises to exciting casino boat experiences, …
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68. Historic Georgetown
The third-oldest city in South Carolina, Georgetown offers a glimpse of the state’s history along with great shopping, dining and scenery. Georgetown is located halfway between Myrtle Beach and Charleston along the Sampit River. The city embraces the Ma …
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